Habitation Beausoleil

The fascinating history of Habitation Beausoleil

What if you could travel back in time? What if a simple visit could transport you to the heart of the 17th century, when Habitation Beausoleil was a thriving sugar estate? This site, nestled in Saint-Claude, has witnessed centuries of history and is a testament to the complex heritage of Guadeloupe. Picture a 120-hectare estate where 147 enslaved people lived in houses made of masonry, wood, and straw. Remarkable, isn’t it?

And that’s not all: did you know that in 1835, this estate produced not only sugar but also rum—one of the island’s true treasures? Today, Habitation Beausoleil is part of the Slave Route circuit, a UNESCO-supported project. So, ready to explore these historic remnants and walk in the footsteps of a bygone era that must never be forgotten?

A heritage to discover

Discovering Habitation Beausoleil is about diving into a rich and complex past, while admiring a site of rare beauty. Located just 5 minutes from Saint-Claude and less than 10 minutes from Basse-Terre, this former sugar plantation spans 30,000 m², part of which is integrated into Guadeloupe’s National Park. The five remaining historical buildings bear witness to a time when the estate played a central role in the sugar economy.

As you explore the grounds, you’ll find authentic structures such as the remnants of the water mill once used to crush sugarcane—still operational during occasional demonstrations—and the partially restored residential buildings where owners and laborers lived. Among the highlights are traditional ovens, stone basins, and ancient piping systems—evidence of advanced engineering for the time.

A particularly poignant aspect of the visit is the focus on the lives of the enslaved people who worked on the estate. For example, visitors can see the remains of a former slave dwelling, where everyday items found on-site are displayed, providing insight into the harsh living conditions they endured.

Walking through these memory-filled spaces, one realizes the importance of preserving such heritage. Every stone tells a story, and each building holds traces of a bygone era. Today, the site also hosts a Contemporary Art Fund, transforming it into a space where culture and history meet to inspire curiosity and reflection.

Visiting Habitation Beausoleil

Habitation Beausoleil is located in Capesterre-Belle-Eau, a coastal commune in Basse-Terre, on Guadeloupe’s main island. The historic site is accessible via the N1 national road, about 20 km south of the town of Basse-Terre. Visitors can follow signs marked “Habitation Beausoleil” that lead directly to the site.

Visiting Habitation Beausoleil is much more than a tour—it’s an immersion in a landmark that blends history, culture, and nature. Located along the Slave Route, this former plantation is open Monday to Friday, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering a unique opportunity to explore a place rich in memory.

To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning, when the lighting highlights the architectural remains and the stunning surrounding landscape. Visits can be enhanced by onsite activities, such as cultural workshops or exhibitions hosted at the Contemporary Art Fund, inaugurated in 2015.

As a property managed by the Guadeloupe Departmental Council, the site has been developed to ensure easy access, even for groups. Whether you’re visiting with family or friends, this location offers the perfect combination of discovery and reflection. Be sure to check for upcoming special events—Habitation Beausoleil’s cultural calendar never fails to draw attention.

Why is Habitation Beausoleil an important historical site?

Habitation Beausoleil is much more than a physical place—it’s a valuable witness to Guadeloupe’s economic, social, and cultural history. Founded in the 17th century, it played a central role in the island’s sugar and rum industry. At its peak, the estate covered 120 hectares and employed 147 enslaved individuals, whose living and working conditions reflected the brutal realities of the slave system.

The estate also symbolizes resilience and transformation. After slavery was abolished in 1848, 163 freed workers chose to remain and work on the land, contributing to a rare form of collaboration for the time. The site thus carries powerful human stories—of suffering, hope, and adaptation.

Now part of the Slave Route circuit supported by UNESCO, Habitation Beausoleil is included in a global memorial project that honors the victims of slavery and raises awareness about the lessons of this dark chapter. The site invites visitors to reflect on this legacy, while celebrating the cultural richness it helped shape.

Practical tips

The best time to visit Habitation Beausoleil is from December to April, during the dry season. Mornings are particularly pleasant, with cooler temperatures ideal for exploring the site.

The site is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility, although some historic areas may be difficult to reach due to their age. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for the walk.

Finally, several other points of interest are nearby. For instance, the Carbet Falls offer spectacular views and hiking trails for all levels. Not far away, the Guadeloupe National Park is a protected area where you can experience the island’s rich biodiversity. You can also visit the Banana House, a museum space dedicated to the history of this iconic crop—just 20 minutes away by car. The Carbet Falls, only 15 minutes away, are a must-see for nature lovers. And the National Park, about 30 minutes away, offers breathtaking hikes and landscapes.